Bassist and educator Jonathan Dimond’s compilation of classical études performed on 6-string bass is a true testament to his work ethic. This is very difficult material, and his technically masterful approach shines through on the 13-track album. With the exception of the Bach Prelude for Piano No. 3, the collection features études from the fabled Kreutzer studies that have plagued violinists and their instructors for generations. While Dimond’s articulation, tone, and general execution come close to flawless, bringing life and soul to these juggernauts is a challenging task, and in that respect, he falls short; even with the Bach, his performances border on stiff and mechanical. But for those looking to tackle this repertoire on electric bass, Dimond clearly illuminates the path.

This iTunes-exclusive, four-song pairing of Foo Fighters’ Dave Grohl producing and drumming with country-rock/folk titans the Zac Brown Band has an added bonus in Oteil Burbridge on bass (first seen on the Country Music Awards in November).

Encouraged by Marcus Miller, with whom he has recorded and performed (most recently on “I Can’t Breathe” from Miller’s Afrodeezia), DJ Mocean Worker puts his considerable bass skills front and center for the first time on his latest house/electro-swing effort.

While the bass work of AFI’s Hunter Burgan has always been dark and moody to match the vibe of his hardcore/punk outfit’s sound, his playing on the band’s ninth studio album shows a previously undiscovered melodic side.

For his fourth solo outing, Tony Grey—whose mastery of the 6-string ranges from effortless neck-scaling solo flights to panoramic collages of chordal melodies, loops, and effects—shares the spotlight with seven 6-stringers of another kind: guitarists John McLaughlin, Mike Stern, David Fiuzynski, Reb Beach, Nir Felder, Fabrizio Sotti, and Tomayasu Hotei (aided by the supple stickwork of David Throckmorton on all but one track).